Timaru keeps top four hopes alive

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Timaru Boys' High School First XV kept its top four hopes alive with a convincing 38-10 win over Waimea College in Nelson.

TBHS also grabbed a crucial four try bonus point by dotting down six tries.

For TBHS it was only their second bonus point, while the two sides above them have seven each, which could prove fatal in the final wash-up as they sit in sixth place, just a win outside the top four.

Roncalli got to field an almost full strength side for the first time this season against Shirley Boys' High School but couldn't quite get over the line going down 22-19.

TBHS found themselves 5-10 down against Waimea but an impressive second half got them home.

It was a real team effort but several of the side shines.Prop Graison Dale impressed in his 50th game for the First XV while lock Ben Dewsberry impressed in the loose with several good runs.

Fullback Nathan McCloy also had another very good game and scored two tries while halfback Steve Phillips was a stand-out in the second half, feeding his backline really well.

Young wing Ofa Manuofetoa made the most of his chances and the 15-year-old proved he could be a player to watch in the future.

Coach Shane Enright said he was impressed with his side's second half efforts.

''It was a good turnaround to score six tries, the boys showed a lot of commitment.''

Roncalli came away from Christchurch rather frustrated that the referee had such a big influence on the game.

The breaks didn't go their way and the boy they had sent to the sin bin had to spend 17 minutes behind the posts, the equivalent of almost half of a half, despite pleas to the referee.

Roncalli led 12-10 at the break and the upset looked on.For Roncalli Matt McKechnie looked good in his unaccustomed position of first five while Vai Leopoamo impressed at centre, scoring a try and setting another one up.

Wing Willy Taylor also made the most of his opportunities on the wing and proved a handful for the opposition.

In his first start for the First XV Reilly Cormack impressed with his maturity and all round game, with some very good long range tactical kicking.

Up front tight head prop Trent Roberts had a big game, with some strong tackling and hit ups while Tom Prayoonuang impressed in his first game back from injury on the openside.

Coach John Simpson said he was gutted for his side that they did not get the results.

''They gave it everything, they emptied the tank but some of the refs calls were really hard to understand.''